3 Burning Questions for Texas State

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Texas State coach Brad Wright says yes. However, it's going to be different compared to when the Bobcats' career passing leader ran the show. With Tim Hawkins, the Bobcats still plan to throw the football, but the sophomore from Corpus Christi Carroll also has speed to provide a running threat. Wright plans to make the most of that opportunity.

How will Texas State's running game fare?

Karrington Bush, who rushed for more than 1,000 yards two years ago and was hindered by injuries in 2009, had knee surgery in the offseason. There's also an academic issue that is yet to be determined. Frank Reddic showed signs of being the Bobcats' top threat, but he's been sidelined during fall workouts with a concussion. The Kilgore sophomore should be ready for the opener against Houston. Injuries also have sidelined Navy transfer Marcus Curry. More help could come from redshirt freshman Dexter Imalde.

The defense has improved the past two years under Fred Bliel. Can the progress continue?

Defense could be the Bobcats' strength as nine starters return, including linebacker Marcus Clark and cornerback Darryl Morris of Warren. There's plenty of depth complementing the experience.

Even though the unit sports a solid look, the road doesn't get easier. The opener against Houston will be tough. The Southland will be challenging again as preseason favorites Stephen F. Austin and McNeese State have several scoring threats.